BEHAVE YOURSELF!

Cinemavixion Review

George Beck's "Behave Yourself!" from 1951 offers a charmingly convoluted crime-comedy that hinges on the unwitting entanglement of a mild-mannered accountant, Bill Denny, with a smuggler's terrier. The narrative cleverly weaves together domestic squabbles, a suspicious mother-in-law, and a growing gangster problem, all sparked by the arrival of a stray dog. Farley Granger and Shelley Winters deliver performances that navigate the film's blend of slapstick and suspense with aplomb, capturing the era's lighthearted approach to criminal intrigue. While not a groundbreaking piece, the film's comedic timing and the escalating absurdity of Denny's predicament make it an enjoyable watch, showcasing a delightful, if slightly chaotic, exploration of how an ordinary life can be upended by the most unexpected of circumstances. It's a testament to the era's ability to find humor in even the most perilous situations.